Our Property Department welcomes Chartered Legal Executive David Smith

Gilbert Stephens is pleased to announce the appointment of Chartered Legal Executive David Smith within our Property Department, David will be based at our Okehampton office and joins us from Coodes LLP, where he headed up the firms Leasehold Specialism team.

David brings with him over 20 years experience in Residential Property Law. He is an expert in conveyancing transactions, acting for both vendors and purchasers on residential property matters ranging from straightforward purchase agreements through to complex developments with multiple properties changing hands simultaneously. Additionally, he specialises in equity release mortgages.

Starting out as an office junior he worked his way up until qualifying as a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Legal Executives in 2004 and we are delighted that he now makes the move to join us here at Gilbert Stephens.

Outside of work David loves Badminton and is a competitive member of his local club.  David also follows tennis very closely and Wimbledon is one of the highlights of his year.  A self-confessed film buff with horror often top of the agenda, he also has a love of music.  This love has led to many successful fundraising evenings, organised by David in the form of music quizzes.

We asked David a few questions to get to know more about his day-to-day work and what brought him to a career in law:

Why did you choose to work at Gilbert Stephens Solicitors?

I have had many dealings with the firm over the last few years and have always found the staff easy to talk to and friendly.

When applying for the role it was clear to me from my interviews that this is where I wanted to work.  There is an emphasis on providing the best service for clients.

Are there aspects of your work that are particularly satisfying or challenging?

It is accepted that moving house can be very stressful.  The most satisfying part of the work for me is building a good relationship with my clients and keeping them updated throughout the transaction to ease some of the stress that comes with the process.

 Do you have any ambitions, professional or personal, that you would like to pursue in the future?

Professionally carrying out my role to best of my ability.   One area which I would like to get more involved with is Equity Release. There is a growing industry and a way of providing financial relief in retirement.

On a personal basis I would like to learn another language and go the French Open tennis championships.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in law?

Be passionate about what you are doing, choosing an area of law which best suits your personality.

 What are you passionate about outside of work?

My wife and I always look forward to travelling, whether it is a week away in the sun or mini city breaks.   Just before Covid hit we had the best time exploring New York.

A final word from David: “I am delighted to join Gilbert Stephens and look forward to meeting new clients in the near future.”

If you would like to David you can email him at  or telephone 01837 512100